South Middlesex Times

Katie Lynch, a senior at Rutgers University–New Brunswick, is leaving a remarkable legacy as an advocate for Indigenous communities within the university. Lynch, a citizen of the Potawatomi Nation in Oklahoma, has dedicated her time to uplifting Indigenous voices on campus.

In her own words, Lynch expresses her passion for advocating for Indigenous visibility, stating, “A lot of my leadership on campus has revolved around uplifting Indigenous voices and making sure that we're heard on campus.” She envisions a future where the Native community thrives at Rutgers, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive ecosystem for others to grow roots. Lynch believes strongly in the interconnectedness of Native people, stating, “As Native people, community is instilled within us at birth – we can’t survive without each other.”

Described as a decisive and thoughtful leader, Lynch's advisor, Ilene Rosen, praises her authenticity, saying, “She lives her truth when she's choosing what to get involved with and when she's making decisions.” Rosen also highlights Lynch's diverse talents and achievements, noting, “There are so many facets to this woman.”

Lynch's journey in advocacy and science began in high school, where she discovered her passion for bioengineering. She was drawn to Rutgers for its research opportunities and the chance to engage with the Douglass Residential College, combining her creativity with science and technology to create innovations that help people.

Looking ahead, Lynch is determined to continue her advocacy work beyond graduation, stating, “I plan to continue fighting for Indigenous visibility when I leave this university.” Her ultimate goal is to work at the intersection of public policy, learning health systems, and community health science to enhance healthcare access in Indigenous communities.

As Lynch prepares to pursue her doctorate degree at the University of Michigan’s Medical School, her dedication to Indigenous advocacy remains unwavering. She envisions using her higher education as a platform for Native nation building, transforming ancestral knowledge into academic excellence.

In conclusion, Katie Lynch's impactful presence as an advocate for Indigenous communities at Rutgers University exemplifies her commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for Native voices to be heard and valued.